There are number of stages needed to colect experimental data. You will need to take accurate measurements form a variety of different apparatus.

You will need to:

• follow instructions both written and in a diagram form;
• use practical apparatus correctly;
• use practical apparatus safely;
• use both analogue and digital instruments;
• consider methods to increase the accuracy of measurements, such as timing over a multiple number of oscillations, using a fiducial maker, or using a set square or plumb line;
• use a signal generator;
• use a cathode ray oscilloscope to include the determination of the potential difference from the y-axis and the time from the x-axis.

In practical activities where a straight line relationship is expected, the minimum number of measurements to be taken shoild be six. More reading should be taken for a curved trend.

You will need to decide on the range over which you will take radings. The measurement should cover as large a range as possible, with sensible intervals between each reading in the range.

You should also consider repeating readings and determining the mean value.

Source: G. Jones., Cambridge international AS&A level Physics. Practical workbook